A behind-closed-doors decision by Labour councillors to overturn plans agreed in public has thrown the administration into turmoil.

The ruling Cabinet of Brighton and Hove City Council had approved a scheme to use a prime city centre shop as a centre for parking services.

But at a private meeting of its ruling Labour group, members decided they were not happy with the decision.

Now puzzled council officers will have to work out whether the decision is valid or whether the original Cabinet resolution stands.

At least three Cabinet members voted against the parking centre idea, which does not need planning permission, at the Labour group meeting saying they now had more information about the project.

The idea of using the former financial offices, owned by the council, in Pavilion Buildings caused opposition from some Labour and Tory councillors who said the site was in a pedestrianised area and should be used for shopping or tourism.

A site is badly needed by the council, which intends to take over parking enforcement from the police this summer. Officials will work out how to interpret the decision by councillors and whether it is valid.

One solution being considered is to install the staff at Pavilion Buildings where there is plenty of space but to use the front of the shop for commercial purposes.

This would still leave the problem of finding somewhere to sell vouchers, deal with parking queries and for fines to be paid.

Cabinet councillor Ken Bodfish, who opposed the plans, said: "Using this building as a parking fines shop is inappropriate."

But he agreed the Labour group's move raised difficult issues for the council about where decisions are made.

He said: "What seemed like a minor issue has become a major issue in more than one way."

About 20 parking staff need a base but the council does not at present have any space. Councillors opposed to the use told the group the building was in a pedestrian precinct and parking services would be out of character.

The owner of the Al Duomo restaurant next door is interested in it for an extension.

Opposition Tory leader Geoffrey Theobald said: "I am pleased at the decision of the Labour group."

Green councillor Keith Taylor said: "I am calling for further clarification from the chief executive. It is important decisions should be made in the full view of the public and not behind closed doors."